change of command at u.s.centcomchange of command at u.s.centcom change of command at u.s.centcom....

A p

ublic

atio

n of

the

Coa

litio

n fi

ghti

ng t

he G

loba

l W

ar o

n Te

rror

ism

A p

ublic

atio

n of

the

Coa

litio

n fi

ghti

ng t

he G

loba

l W

ar o

n Te

rror

ism

A p

ublic

atio

n of

the

Coa

litio

n fi

ghti

ng t

he G

loba

l W

ar o

n Te

rror

ism

A p

ublic

atio

n of

the

Coa

litio

n fi

ghti

ng t

he G

loba

l W

ar o

n Te

rror

ism

A p

ublic

atio

n of

the

Coa

litio

n fi

ghti

ng t

he G

loba

l W

ar o

n Te

rror

ism

Vo

lum

e #3

9 F

ebru

ary/

Mar

ch,

2007

Vo

lum

e #3

9 F

ebru

ary/

Mar

ch,

2007

Vo

lum

e #3

9 F

ebru

ary/

Mar

ch,

2007

Vo

lum

e #3

9 F

ebru

ary/

Mar

ch,

2007

Vo

lum

e #3

9 F

ebru

ary/

Mar

ch,

2007

Coali

tion B

ulleti

n

C h a n g e O fC o m m a n d A t

U . S . C E N T C O M

C h a n g e O fC o m m a n d A t

U . S . C E N T C O M

IN THIS ISSUE:IN THIS ISSUE:IN THIS ISSUE:IN THIS ISSUE:IN THIS ISSUE:

The views expressed in the Coalition Bulletin cannot be attributed to any one nation. They are itemsconsidered newsworthy by the volunteers from various nations that make up the Public AwarenessWorking Group (PAWG). Contributions from all Coalition countries are encouraged. All contributorsto the Coalition Bulletin are responsible for adhering to PAWG policy pertaining to the accuracy andcopyright laws in the content they provide.For questions concerning PAWG policy, contact the Coalition Bulletin editor at +1 (813) 827-1716,or write to us at [email protected]. For an electronic copy of the Coalition Bulletin,visit: www.centcom.mil/Operations/Coalition/joint.htm

By the generous permission of our NATO partners, the Coalition Bulletin is pleased to bring youstories covering the activities of the International Security Assistance Force. As ISAF and the Coa-lition are separate entities, ISAF stories will be denoted by the NATO logo at the top of each page whenthey appear.

Editor’s NoteEditor’s NoteEditor’s NoteEditor’s NoteEditor’s Note

COALITION BULLETIN STAFF:COALITION BULLETIN STAFF:COALITION BULLETIN STAFF:COALITION BULLETIN STAFF:COALITION BULLETIN STAFF:

Brig. Gen. Ahsan Mahmood Pakistan

New Zealand

Chairman

Committee

Pakistan Lt. Col. Ehtisham Tirmizi Chief of Coalition Public Affairs Team

Cover photo:

Pakistan Col. Bilal Saeed Ullah KhanCanada Lt. Col. Ian HopeFrance Cmdr. Bruno Kral

Wing Cmdr. Leslie MatthewsLt. Cdr. Ionel Rizea

USA Maj. Jocelyn Baker

Italy

Korea

Romania

Germany Lt. Col. Rene FabianLt. Col. Chuolhwam Kim

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

Ukraine Capt. Yuriy KaliaievSenior Editor

Dominican Rep.

Editorial Staff

Cmdr. Maurizio Loi

Maj. Rashid Al-MannaiMaj. Diana GradinaruCapt. Manuel Matos1st Sgt. Marvin Baker

Moldova

USA

Qatar

Adm. William FallonCommander U.S.CENTCOM

U.S.Central CommandWelcomes New

Commander WithFanfare...2

Abizaid DedicatesCoalition Village 3....4

Azerbaijan CompanyProtects

Haditha Dam in Iraq...6

Corps CommandersConvene at Herat

Conference...9

Gen John P. Abizaid shakes the hand ofthe new U.S. Central Command commander Adm.William J. Fallon. Fallon took charge of CENTCOM at aChange of Command ceremony held at MacDill Air ForceBase in Tampa Fl. Photo by Spc. Patrick A. Ziegler

We have to get things that are going to givethe Iraqi people confidence in their governmentand in their future so that they’re going to beable to carry on and we have a lot of thingsthat we can do to help them. We have to makethem feel that they’ve got the courage andcapabilities themselves.

EditorialEditorialEditorialEditorialEditorialW

Coalition Bulletin February/March 2007 1

Ahsan MahmoodBrigadier-General, PakistanChairman, Public Awareness Working Group

A visiting Afghan General and two of his staff members had aproductive luncheon meeting March 12 with several Coalitionpartners despite having to speak through an interpreter. Maj. Gen. Mehrab Ali, the chief of communications for thegeneral staff at the Ministry of Defense, Brig. Gen. Baba Mirza,the deputy G6 for strategic communications and Col. Said FarooqYosuf Zai, the director of maintenance and support activities forthe chief of communications, all dined with Coalition partnersfrom the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Germany andDenmark. Maj. Wayne Price, the signal corps chief at the CoalitionCoordination Center who set up the meeting, said he has spokenseveral times with Ali on the telephone prior to meeting him for aMonday morning breakfast. “They’re doing a tour throughout the United States,” Pricesaid. “They’ve been in New York and Washington, D.C., andthen Tampa, Keesler Air Force Base (Biloxi, Miss.) and southernCalifornia to talk to equipment manufacturers.” Price called the Afghan trio “a great bunch of guys,” and saidthe purpose of the luncheon was to get Ali and his colleaguestogether with Coalition partners who are big players in stabilizingAfghanistan. In fact, the Dutch senior national representative, Maj. Gen.Leonardus van den Born, sat next to Ali at the dinner table. Thetwo men talked frequently and made a couple of jokes to breakthe ice. Van den Born, who has spent time in Afghanistan, talked aboutthe mountains in the Netherlands being 300 feet in height. Aliquickly replied through the interpreter there is a 500-meter passin Kandahar province where only one vehicle can pass at a time.Brig. Gen. Susan Lawrence, the director of J6 at CENTCOM, askedAli if he plays golf. “It’s been 30 years we’ve been at war,” he said. “Those gamesare gone.” Van den Born added he has played golf in Kabul and suggestedthat the general start practicing so the next time he comes toTampa, they can hit the links together. There was also talk of technology, transportation and personnelduring the luncheon. Lawrence said Afghanistan has made greatstrides in all those areas in recent years. According to Price, it has been a colossal task for the Afghansto make the kind of progress that Lawrence mentioned. “The problem you have to understand is he (Ali) is trying tostand up an army that is 90 percent illiterate,” Price said. And for those who can read, Price added, training manualsoften found are written in French, German, Russian or English. “It was a productive meeting,” Price said. “If you think aboutit, the only people in the Coalition he gets to see are the folksfighting. It’s good for him to see the support staff.”

Afghan LeadershipMeets Coalition

Story by 1st Sgt. Marvin Baker

Partners at CENTCOMith the change of

command at HeadquartersCENTCOM, a new US Militaryhierarchy is now in place toimplement the adjusted strategyin Iraq. While we profoundlyacknowledge the professionalismand dedication of General Abizaidwishing him very best in hispursuits henceforth, we also takethis opportunity to welcome Admiral Fallon and wish him well inthis challenging assignment. As the new commander assumeseffective control of the Campaign, the members of Coalition assurehim of unflinching support to fight and succeed in this ongoingconflict. Needless to mention that the representatives of sixty-four countries here at CENTCOM, actually bring with them anenormous amount of military experience coupled with intimateknowledge of the respective peculiarities/sensitivities, whichremains available to the planning staff and Commander. Notwithstanding the political debate on the subject of war inIraq, the operations under the new theatre commander havereached a very important phase. While there appears to be anapparent improvement in the situation, it is too early to jump toany conclusions. Therefore, a sustained long-term approach isfundamental to achieve lasting improvement, as any indicationof becoming weary of the ongoing conflict will bring disastrousresults to Iraq. It will also encourage the insurgents to adopt astrategy to outlast the Coalition forces, thereby retaining thepotential to destabilize virtually the complete region. It is thereforeimportant that as ‘Operation Fard-Al-Qanoon’ progresses withincreased participation of Iraqi security forces, simultaneouslycommensurate efforts are also undertaken to achieve politicalharmony and resolution of contentious issues between the majorethnic groups, for lasting peace. Events in Afghanistan also present an encouraging picturewith NATO/ISAF offensive having achieved an appreciablesuccess in troubled areas. It is however fundamental that a majordevelopment effort should be undertaken in the cleared areaswith participation of the locals to erode the support base ofinsurgents. Increase in number of suitably financed PRTs, withemphasis towards south and SE remains the essential approachfor improved results. Additionally, the latest measures institutedfor better monitoring of Durand Line will also bear results, as themovement across the border can be better controlled if doneeffectively from both sides. There is also a need to work now onthe issue of management of expected drug crop, to choke thefinancial support base of the miscreants in Afghanistan. Like the previous Bulletins, present issue is reflective ofnumerous security operations, reconstruction effort and capacitybuilding initiatives being done in the AOR. However, the mainfeature remains the change of command ceremony at HQCENTCOM and the opening ceremony of the new Coalitionbuilding by General Abizaid, which is reflective of the long termnature of the Coalition arrangement.

6

ww

w.c

entc

om.m

il/O

pera

tions

/Coa

litio

n/jo

int.h

tm

2

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. - Adm. William J. Fallon tookcharge of United States Central Command here March 16 replacingGen. John P. Abizaid. Steady rain outside Hangar 3 didn’t stop the one-hour ceremonythat was attended by hundreds from all branches of militaryservice, Coalition members and civilians. Numerous TV, newspaperand wire service reporters also attended.


Fallon, the former chief of the U.S. Pacific Command, now leadsmore than 200,000 service members deployed in CENTCOM’s areaof responsibility, which includes 27 nations throughout SouthwestAsia, the Middle East and the Horn of Africa. Fallon is the first naval officer to assume command ofCENTCOM, which began as the Rapid Deployment Joint TaskForce in 1980 changed to its present title in 1983. He is the 10th

Gen. John P. Abizaid inspects the troop for a final time during the Change of Command ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base inTampa Fla. Abizaid relinquished command to Adm. William J. Fallon. Photo by Spc. Patrick A Ziegler

He thanked Abizaid and his wife Kathy for the wonderful jobthey’ve both done for the United States and wished them well intheir retirement. In a parting comment, Abizaid asked Coalition members in theaudience to stand and be recognized. “Look around, we are notfighting alone,” he said. Abizaid also praised the troops who have worked under him,

commander to lead the organization. Secretary of Defense, RobertM.Gates, presided during the ceremony that included a simple,traditional passing of the colors. Fallon and Abizaid’s review oftroops included members of the five CENTCOM componentcommands, the headquqrters and troops representing those in Iraq,Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa and a contingent of Coalitionrepresentatives in formation just inside the hangar. Gates then paidtribute to both Abizaid and Fallon during his keynote remarks.

U.S.Central Command Welcomes


Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates delivers his speech at the U.S. CentralCommand, Change of Command ceremony. Photo by Spc. Patrick A. Ziegler

“War is never easy,” Abizaid said. “Sometimes we Americanstend to look at all the problems in the world and take too manyof our fears to heart. When you look at the people who wearthe uniform of this great nation, we have nothing to fear.” Gates also praised the incoming commander’s experienceand expertise. He said this is Fallon’s fourth, four-star assignmentafter being nominated for the CENTCOM post by PresidentGeorge W. Bush in January and being confirmed by the Senatein February. “Nobody would begrudge you if you asked for a well-deserved rest but me,” Gates said to Fallon. “We need youagain.” Fallon spoke about the way ahead and offered someencouraging words. He said he puts a premium on good, strongrelationships. The admiral added he will work hard to make thathappen, especially in the AOR. “We have been entrusted with a great responsibility in thispart of the world,” Fallon said. “And despite the challenges, wehave a lot going for us. The five branches serve so well aroundthe world, around the clock. We have the support of theAmerican people who want us to succeed.” Fallon began his naval career in 1967 and has an impressivelist of accomplishments since then. He flew the RA-5C Vigilantewith a combat deployment to Vietnam, transitioning to the A-6Intruder in 1974. He served in flying assignments with attacksquadrons and carrier air wings for 24 years, deploying to theMediterranean Sea, Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceansembarked in USS Saratoga, USS Ranger, USS Nimitz, USSDwight D. Eisenhower and USS Theodore Roosevelt. He haslogged more than 1,300 carrier arrested landings and 4,800 flighthours in tactical jet aircraft. Fallon’s awards include the Defense Distinguished ServiceMedal, the Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior

Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, the MeritoriousServiceMedal, the Air Medal and the Navy Commendation Medal.

Adm. William J. Fallon receives the colors during the Changeof Command ceremony. Photo by Spc. Patrick A. Ziegler

saying that never has a theater commander been so blessedwith such a heroic staff.

The change of command marked the end of Abizaid’s 34 -yearcareer. Abizaid wrapped up 54 months at CENTCOM as both deputycommander and commander. He left as one of the longest-servingsenior leaders in the command’s history. The command’s staff provided personal farewells on Thursday ata dinner hosted by City Tavern in Ybor City that included humorousskits and poignant tributes to his career and family. His officialretirement ceremony was held Friday morning. He was awarded theDefense Distinguished Service Medal by Gates at the event.

Gen. John P. Abizaid addresses thetroops, dignitaries, family and friendsat the Change of Commandceremony. Photo by Spc. Patrick A.Ziegler

New Commander With Fanfare

4

Senior National Representatives and their staffs gatheredtogether in front of Coalition Village 3 March 5 in anticipation ofthe arrival of a very special guest. “How’s your new house,” Gen. John Abizaid said, as he walkedup to greet everyone. Abizaid, the U.S. Central Command commander, was on handto officially open the new CENTCOM building that has becomeknown as Coalition Village 3. As Abizaid marched up the steps and into the main entranceof the spotless, two-story structure, he was met by Army Maj.Gen. Gerald Minetti, the director of the Coalition CoordinationCenter. In addition, Abizaid immediately saw a dark blue curtainin the doorway that temporarily concealed a plaque that he wouldsoon dedicate to the SNRs . “There’s a little unveiling we’d like you to participate in,” Minettisaid to Abizaid. “This is very meaningful, and memorable for theSNRs to take time out of their schedules to be here. And to makethis permanent, we want to unveil this plaque to commemoratetoday.” Minetti’s words drew applause from the crowd of about 40.Abizaid addressed the group saying he enjoyed seeing so manyCoalition officers and was honored with the logo “United WeStand.” “Thanks,” Abizaid told the Coalition partners. He then took atour of the new building, stopping first in the main conferenceroom while Minetti explained the building itself and how it wasdesigned.

“The staff came up with the idea of the flags,” Minetti said. The CCC director also explained a Coalition Christmas partythat was held in the building before it actually opened. Minettitold Abizaid about the numerous types of food and drink Coalitionmembers and their families prepared for everyone. Abizaid was later flanked by Brig. Gen. Mark Wheeler of NewZealand, the chairman of the SNR group. Together, Wheeler andAbizaid toured the Pakistani office and spoke with Coalitionmembers from that nation for some time. Wheeler said Coalition Village 3 is an important developmentas it takes the Coalition from an ad hoc basis to a permanentinstitution.

“CV3 will prove to be an excellent facility to enhance interactionbetween nations,” Wheeler told the Coalition Bulletin last month. As Abizaid completed his tour, he suggested adding Coalitionflags outside the building as well to let passersby know thatCoalition service members are serving their nations proudly atCENTCOM. “Life has gotten better for the Coalition,” Abizaid said. “I’mglad I got over here.” Minetti concluded the ceremony by presenting a plaque toAbizaid for dedicating the new building. “This is great progress,” Abizaid said.

“Life has improved greatly,” Abizaid said as he walked down ahall, referring to Coalition Villages 1 and 2, which were essentiallyclusters of mobile homes that housed Coalition Soldiers from 64nations since shortly after 9/11. The CENTCOM commander later met Marine Corps Col. DavidGreco, the deputy director of the Coalition Coordination Center.“You’re not living badly,” he said as he checked out Greco’s newoffice on the main floor. Next, it was up to the second floor, Abizaid shaking hands withservice members as he passed through offices and hallways withhis entourage in tow. One of the unique features of Coalition Village 3 is that theentrance to each Coalition office has that nation’s flag hangingabove the doorway providing for colorful hallways.

From left: Maj.Gen. Gerald P. Minetti, Gen. John P.Abizaid andBrig. Gen. Mark Wheeler after official opening of the newCoalition Village. Photo by SGT Chris Keller

New Coalition Village. Photo by Capt. ManuelMatos (Dominican Rep.)


Abizaid Dedicates Coalition Village 3

From left: SNRs Col. Sorrawat Pattamakom(Thailand), Lt.Col. Juan Minjarrez (Nicaragua) andRear Adm. Jesus Alvargonzalez (Spain) during theofficial opening of the new Coalition Village.Photo by SGT Chris Keller

Coalition Bullet February/March 2007 5

Founded in January 2005 by MND-NE with a goal of growingthe will of self-recovery among the locals and providing them withthe basis for economic independence in Irbil, Iraq, VocationalTraining Center has been playing a role as a growing ground for abright future of the region. When the VTC was established, the war-torn Irbil region wasseeing record number of unemployment and a shortage of skilledworkers, and possible remedies such as schools and technological

institutes were in a dismal shape. VTC was built to give the localsa chance to acquire practical skills using Korean equipments andtechniques, thus learning how to stand on their own feet. In seven courses that include computer, car maintenance, farmingmachine repair, special vehicle driving and bakery, 1,192 traineesfrom eight groups were certified throughout the eight-weekprogram. These trainees have mastered skills in various ways by learninghow to use high-tech equipment during the course and in the fieldwhen MND-NE holds its Green Angel Operations outside the base.Furthermore, the certificates the graduates receive upon theircourse completion almost automatically guarantee them jobs inthe region; 836 graduates so far have signed up for a job upongraduation, and they were all hired by various Kurdish RegionalGovernment agencies or by private enterprises. Among the recent graduates, some are taking advantage of theboom in the electronic sector in the region using the skill theyacquired in the VTC. Others are working as public servants, electricmechanics, bakers and many other jobs. Such an accomplishment is not only helping the Irbil region’sreconstruction and economic recovery, but also removing the seedsfor social unrests by reducing the number of unemployed in theregion, who would have otherwise joined terrorist organizationfor lack of means to support themselves. VTC is extending its reach to the disabled as well. Seven disabledpeople have successfully completed the computer course, andare now living their second lives working at Helen Welfare Center,Irbil Telephone Exchange, Shourish Orphanage and other places.

Industry, and one in the Ministry of Finance. On the sixthgraduation, three more female trainees acquired the license as well. VTC attaches importance to teaching “how to catch fish” ratherthan “giving them fish,” and to giving the locals new lives ratherthan simply teaching them new skills. It has been a hope of Irbil,by giving the locals a chance to make their dreams come true.Even at this moment, every soldier of Zaytun Vocational TrainingCenter is making every effort in growing a pool of future playersfor the reconstruction in the region. The fifth VTC completion graduate Sadar Abdulqwadir Mazid (33years old, a heavy engine and power generator maintenance)graduated high school with an ambition to work at a SpecialEnterprise related to power generation after meeting many peoplehaving difficulties of an electric power shortage. After graduation, he realized that he had a large family to supportincluding his younger brother riding a wheel chair because ofphysical disability but he had no chance of getting employment.Just in time, he saw an enrollment advertisement of VTC from KRG.After taking nine weeks of professional training, he graduated

with high grades and now he is working with monthly pay of $300,which is enough to feed his family, at Repair Enterprise of HeavyPower Generator of KRG. He strongly advocates the Korean Armyand VTC to his family and neighborhood. The fifth VTC completion graduate of the Computer programBardirkan Adulaziz Ahmed, 31 years old, had difficulty finding ajob because of his physical disability, but after completing VTC heentered KRG and was also given a commendation from the Ministerof Social Welfare of Irbil Regional Government as the most excellentstudent from the fifth VTC graduates. He previously had noconfidence because of his physical disability but now he saysthat he is very proud to be instrumental in the development of hiscountry.

VTC is also open to women. On the fifth graduation, four femaletrainees acquired the driving license for heavy vehicles (classifiedas vehicles up to 69 metric-ton trailer) to become the first Kurdishwomen to acquire the license, and all of them are now working forKRG; two in the Ministry of Education, one in the Ministry of

Story and photos by MND-NE

Zaytun Vocational Training Center- Where the Foundation for Reconstruction of Irbil is

Being Laid

ww

w.c

entc

om.m

il/O

pera

tions

/Coa

litio

n/jo

int.h

tm

6

“Thank you for a great visit to your contingenton Feb.1, 2007. I admire the outstanding relationshipthat you have developed with the U.S. Marines. Yoursoldiers have a remarkable passion for their importantmission – they are true professionals! The importanceof the dam in regulating water supply/irrigation andproviding electricity is striking, and your teammanages security and support in a skilful and expertmanner. It is a multinational effort and the strengthand interoperability of the U.S. and Coalition unitsat the Haditha Dam is extraordinary. You all workwell together and complement each other very well”.

Maj. Gen. Peter Devlin (Canadian Army) This letter of appreciation has been sent to a companycommander of Azerbaijan peacekeeping company after the visitof Major general Peter Devlin (Canadian Army) currentlydeputy commanding officer MNC-I. In order to achieve our main goal of Stability in the MiddleEast, the importance of successes on a smaller scale is vital. Azerbaijan peacekeeping company comprise 150 well-trainedand equipped soldiers successfully providing security of thecrucially important object. Coalition as well as for Iraqicitizens’ water and energy supply at Haditha Dam. It hasbeen almost four years since the first Azerbaijani companyarrived in Iraq. Azerbaijan is a country, which has experienced brutalterrorism, it’s estimated that about 2,500 people have diedbecause of foreign and domestic terrorism in Azerbaijan.Theworld’s worst metro terrorist attack was conducted in Baku in1995, when 289 people died and more than 300 were wounded. Azerbaijan was one of the first nations to offer any help itcould provide to the U.S. after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist

attacks in New York, and joining the U.S. led coalition. Thecountry grants over flight rights for U.S. military aircraft, andhas sent contingents of troops to the coalition in Afghanistanand Iraq, and Kosovo before that. The defense officials calledAzerbaijan’s forces “highly competent” in their performancewhile serving with Turkish forces in Afghanistan and Americanforces in Iraq. In the beginning of 2006, the Azerbaijan security andintelligence agency managed to arrest dozens of Al-Qaeda

members who were using Azerbaijan as a transitcountry. One of the arrested member included Abu-Ayat, who is an alleged explosive specialist andclaimed to be close to Osama bin Laden. Some oftheir plans included attacking the capital ofAzerbaijan. All of the Al-Qaeda members werehanded over to the U.S. Currently 207 personnel of the Azerbaijanpeacekeeping forces are participating inpeacekeeping operations in Afghanistan, Iraq andKosovo. Also with the help of the U.S., 545professionally trained and equipped Azerbaijanpeacekeeping personnel are ready to deploy. Azerbaijan has three-men liaison team inU.S.CENTCOM. Maj. Elman Shiraliyev, Capt. RashadAhmadov and Naval Lt. Rashad Mammadovrepresent their country in both OIF and OEF andplay an active coordinating role in assistingAzerbaijani forces in the area of responsibility ofCENTCOM to accomplish successfuly their mission.

Their another countryman, Lt.Col. Raj Babayev is embeddedin Combined Planning Group of the command.

Story by Maj. Elman Shiraliyev (Azerbaijan)

Company commander Capt. Nasimi Javadov and Maj.Gen. PeterDevlin. Photo by Capt. Javid Abbasov (Azerbaijan)

Azerbaijan Army soldiers - reliable protection for HadithaDam. Photo by Capt. Javid Abbasov (Azerbaijan)

Azerbaijan Company ProtectsHaditha Dam in Iraq


Thirty kilometers east of camp Echo in the Ad Diwaniyah areaof Asal Belly during operation Desert Storm was an Iraqi artilleryposition. Sixteen square kilometers of the terrain was almost entirelycovered in artillery ammunition, mortar grenades, anti-tank minesand aircraft bombs. Feb. 28 Bosnia and Herzegovina explosiveordnance disposal (EOD) unit set off to this dangerous place inorder to seek and destroy unexploded ordnance. It was a verycrucial mission because each piece of this ammunition couldbecome a potential improvised device (IED) and be used againstIraqis or Coalition forces. Right after the unit reached the destination point, the maneuvergroup secured the area of operation. Next they began identifyingammunition. “The main priorities are ammunition with caliber over 120 mmbecause it poses the biggest threat.” said liaison officer 1st Lt.Samir Husanovic. “We are going to collect all this explosive inone place and destroy it.”

Bosnia and Herzegovina EOD Unit in Action

This task is difficult because some of this ammunition is rustedor damaged and can’t be moved. It is necessary to destroy it onthe spot. After they planted plastic explosive charges and withdrew intoa safe place, they observed the efficiency of their work. Twohuge blasts shook the ground and there appeared big plumes ofsmoke. After, the team double checked whether all ammunitionhad been destroyed. A patrol went to the spot and did thoroughexamination. Then they went back to the Multinational DivisionCentral South camp Echo. “Today we have destroyed 359 pieces of unexploded ordnanceincluding 126 projectiles and mortar grenades of 120 mm caliber.”Reported EOD unit commander Capt. Herman Jerman. “We havealso destroyed more than 6,000 pieces of unexploded ordnanceoverall weight over 14 tons during last week.”

B&H technician installs priming points with detonation cord.Photo by Capt. Szczepan Gluszczak (Poland)

The final result of the B&H EOD unit magnificent job.Photo by Capt. Szczepan Gluszczak (Poland)

Maj. Elman Shiraliyev(right) briefing his Liaison Team.Photo by Capt. Manuel Matos (Dominican Rep.)

Azerbaijan Army soldiers ready to actPhoto by Capt. Javid Abbasov (Azerbaijan)

Story by Lt.Col. Marek Zielinski (Poland)

Story and photos by Lt.Col. Jari Vaara (Finland)

8

The recent history of political parties in Afghanistan’s provinceFaryab is one of continuous public tensions, old personal hatredsand reoccurring clashes that often date back to the civil war andTaliban raids of the 1990s. In an effort to break the animosity of thepast and initiate political dialogue, the PRT Meymaneh arrangedthe possibility for the political parties to meet officially.

Mohammad Husain, the Azadi Party leader in Faryab said, “It wasnot a lie that in the past there had been weapons used and notpolitics. Now we are trying to resolve the issues with politics, notwith war.” “The goal is not to unify parties, but to have a unity ofideas to move development and it is beneficial to discuss”, SaidAhmad Sadat, the Jamiat Party leader in Faryab added. The initiative for a joint meeting came from the Norwegian-ledProvincial Reconstruction Team, the only actor in Faryab to

provide neutral ground for discussions likethese and to free parties from the local powergames. The PRT also houses soldiers fromFinland and Latvia. The media of Faryab was also invited to thescene after the closed door discussionsheaded by the Commander of PRT Meymaneh,Lt. Col. Arne Opperud. “The meeting was asuccess. The party representatives wereorganized and calm in their speeches andbehaviour. It was true political dialogue withpeaceful means,” Opperud said. Local journalists were very happy, too. “Asa resident of Faryab it is great to see the partiestogether, and that everybody could expresstheir views on the needs of the province.Expressing different thoughts and viewsbrings freedom of speech and democracy,”the journalist said at the press conference. The atmosphere was loose and a lot ofsmiling and hugs were seen after the meeting.

The presence of the local press also let the parties chat informallyand find some touches between the key persons. “The presence of the media clearly worked as a carrot for theparties. The PRT will organise same type of meetings during thisyear,” Mr. Oskari Eronen, the political representative of PRT stated.

Thursday, Jan. 25 was a historic day in Faryab as the three mostimportant political parties, Jumbesh, Azadi and Jamiat, gatheredaround the same table to discuss the current state as well as thefuture of the province. This wasthe first tripartite talks seen inFaryab. All representatives of the localpolitical parties expressed theirappreciation for the opportunityto gather and meet together.According to Abdul Jalil Awer, thedeputy Jumbesh party leader inFaryab, “The time now is suitablefor discussing the problems.Political parties will have differentideas, but one should sit togetherand try to find common solutions.Discussion and exchange of ideasin itself is positive.” All the parties assured eachother they do not currently havemilitary units any more and thatthey do not support the use ofweapons. They also said thatviolence and violentdemonstrations must be avoided.

Political Parties Gather for the First Time in PRTMeymaneh

Sometimes the winters are very harsh in Meymaneh

The seller of the bread is ready to serve


Corps Commanders Convene atHerat Conference

KABUL, Afghanistan - Corps commanders of the AfghanNational Army convened March 7 in Herat for a three-dayconference to discuss mission objectives, new goals andcurrent obstacles. Gen. Dan McNeill, ISAF commander, attended theconference and listened to proposals to restructure the corps,added words of praise for their progress and offered insighton how to achieve success in the ANA organization. “A hallmark of a good army is its flexibility and ability toadapt to its surrounding environment,” McNeill said. “Makedecisions that will help you fight terrorists successfully andyou will always be in the right. If it means moving an entirebrigade, then do it.” The ANA is creating a new schedule for active duty,training and liberal leave. This plan is designed to help reduce

McNeill agrees that steps like the new structure plan haveenabled the ANA to grow into a strong and reliable securityforce. “In 2002, your military was only a band of militias,” hesaid. “Now five years later, you are emerging as a real armyprepared to take on increasing responsibility. Althoughthe generosity of the international alliance has helped, theAfghans’ sacrifices are responsible for most of the progressyou have made.” In a parting speech, Khan praised the corpscommanders for their hard work in helping the ANA emergeas a reliable security force. “The ANA has been extremely successful,” he said.“We continue to be successful because of the commitmentof everyone to strengthen our country. The soldiers andofficers are the reason why we’re so strong today.”

desertion rates and motivate soldiers to stay with theircompanies by allowing them time to visit their familiesand serve in areas closer to their homes. In an address tothe corps commanders and mentors, Afghan Gen.Bismullah Khan, ANA general staff chief of staff,explained the need for the new schedule. “In the ANA, we have a commitment to each other,”Khan said. “If the soldiers can learn to follow orders anddo what we ask, then we must do what we can to care forour subordinates, which means finding a better way forour men to serve their country.” “Too often, the men who go (absent without leave)come back to us on their own. They know this is a goodchoice of lifestyle and they just miss their old way oflife,” Khan said. “It is our job to make their choice as asoldier easier.”

Gen. Bismullah Khan (left) shows Gen. Dan McNeill the newheadquarters at the ANA base in Herat , AfghanistanPhoto by Senior Airman Stacia Zachary

Lt. Gen. Sher Mohammad Karimi, Afghan Ministry ofDefense chief of operations (right), speaks withGen. Dan McNeill. Photo by Senior Airman Stacia Zachary

Gen. Dan McNeill discusses the importance of theprogress the Afghan National Army has madePhoto by Senior Airman Stacia Zachary

Story by ISAF Public Information Office

10

Titan Training Program Targets ANSF

CAMP KEATING, Afghanistan –International Security Assistance ForceSoldiers have made special efforts to helpthe Afghan government and AfghanNational Security Forces build a stablebase at Camp Keating, located in NuristanProvince in northeast Afghanistan. A short, comprehensive course ondismounted tactics targeting all Afghansecurity forces is currently helping toimprove ANSF performance and enhanceregional security. The 24-hour class, taught by TaskForce Titan instructors from 3rdSquadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment of TaskForce Spartan, serves as a refreshercourse for Afghan National Policemen,Afghan Security Guards, AfghanNational Border Police and personalsecurity detachment guards. The course was started by a military police unit formerly stationedon the camp and consists of a variety of classes, including firstaid, weapons training and unarmed combat training. These classesrepresent merely the tip of the iceberg of knowledge that Afghanforces are exposed to throughout the course, given that this is arefresher course, developing on skills the Afghans already possess.The amount of time spent on each subject in the course varies,with key subjects receiving more time. “We spend a lot of time on the weapons,” said Sgt. Juan Barajas,course instructor. “A lot of these Afghan soldiers have not hadvery much formal military training up until now. A lot of old habitshave to be broken and that takes a little extra time.” The Afghan soldiers are trained on the AK-47 automatic rifle, 9-millimeter pistol and the shotgun. Weapons safety is a main concernon the small training range as well as real-life scenarios. Theweapons are of little use if they don’t function properly. “We alsoteach them preventative maintenance on their weapons,” Barajassaid. At the completion of the course all students are awarded agraduation certificate.Trainers face and surmount a number of challenges as they workalongside Afghan colleagues; the most significant of which is thelanguage barrier between the instructors and the soldiers. “Sometimes meaning gets lost in translation,” Barajas continued.“It takes a lot of patience to make sure these guys are trulyunderstanding what we want from them. We have an interpreterthat works with us. We exercise a lot of patience when trying toconvey what we expect of the Afghan soldiers during training.” Another aspect of the course is the time taken with the individualstraining to be bodyguards for VIPs. “We train them on specialactions, like office evacuation procedures or how to set up securityfor special meetings, or just having VIP on a location,” Barajassaid.

Barajas and his fellow trainer, Sgt. Andrew Gibbs, put their heartsinto their work. “When we start to see true initiative with theAfghans, it spurs the same in us,” said Gibbs. “Their desire tolearn inspires the desire to teach in us.” “We try and teach them to take pride in what they do,” Gibbssaid. “We want them to understand that this is not just a job.They are working toward a stronger Afghanistan.” Barajas and Gibbs make sure they take whatever time is neededto ensure the Afghans are learning their job correctly, so eachcourse is not always the same. The course path depends on theneeds of the current pupils. “We make an assessment of the soldiers prior to them beginningthe course,” Barajas said. “If they are already well schooled andcomfortable with all the basics, we may take the training to a moreadvanced level to make sure everyone is getting what they need.”More advanced classes include counter-sniper operations anddrug interdiction. Trainers plan to expand the course length to 32 hours in thenear future. They also plan to introduce a new curriculum, includingdriver training. Other projections for the future include a moreintensive un-armed combative portion and a “train the trainer”program. Looking at the bigger picture, the trainers involved in deliveringthis course hope that their instruction will help improve the regionby bolstering the security forces. “When we leave, we want tosee a much stronger and more self-reliant Afghan police andsecurity force,” Gibbs said. “They do not have the best resources,but things are slowly changing and security has to come first.”

Army Sgt. Juan Barajas, cavalry scout, 3rd Squadron, 71stCavalry Regiment, Task Force Spartan, and an Afghan securityforces trainer, works with Afghan Military Police at CampKeating in Nuristan Province. Photo by Sgt. Amber Robinson

Story by ISAF Public Information Office

Coalition Bulletin January 2007 11

ww

w.c

entc

om.m

il/O

pera

tions

/Coa

litio

n/jo

int.h

tm


HELMAND, Afghanistan - The first ever children’s playgroundin Helmand province has been built in Lashkar Gah. The play area, which is approximately 50 x 100 meters, has swings,climbing frames, a football pitch and a covered picnic area withbenches. It was built by local Afghan contractors at a cost of $52,000 andhas been funded and coordinated by the United Kingdom ’s CivilMilitary Cooperation team. “They haven’t got anything like that in Helmand . This is thefirst of what we hope is going to be a lot more” said SSgt. Hutton

First Playground for the Children of HelmandStory and photos by ISAF Public Information Office

The initial idea for the playground was suggested by an ISAFsoldier, who whilst patrolling the town, had seen children playingon a makeshift see-saw made from a plank of wood. The proposalwas put to the CIMIC team who agreed to fund the project throughthe UK ’s Quick Impact Project fund. The construction of the playground was done in full cooperation

and it and since it was installed they haven’t stopped using itwhich makes it all worthwhile.”

from the UK CIMIC team. “It has a football pitch, benches, playapparatus and we’ve planted some hedgerows. The children love

Polish Children to Iraqi Children

Polish soldiers from camp Echo in Ad Diwaniyah and soldiersfrom camp Delta an Al Kut have received humanitarian aid forIraqi children Feb.25. Action coordinator was Mr. Krzysztof Kolcz from crisismanagement branch from Wielkopolska province governorate fromPoland, had collected cleaning stuff, sweets, school equipmentand toys.

with the Mayor of Lashkar Gah. It has been such a success thatwork has now started on a second playground in Lashkar Gah andthere are plans for a third in the nearby town of Gereshk.

The Polish Brigade Combat Team and Salvadorian CIMIC groupwill soon carry out distribution of humanitarian aid in Wasitprovince. The next part of assistance from Wielkopolska provinceis due in March.” Soldiers from CIMIC group from camp Echo are going to handover this assistance to the capital of Al Quadisiyah province, tothe city of Ad Diwaniyah. “These gifts will be distributed toorphanage, local schools and hospital.” – stated Lt. Col. AndrzejDylong, Commander of Polish CIMIC group. Earlier, the governorof Wielkopolska province Mr. Tadeusz Dziuba requested schoolsin Wielkopolska province to organize collection of humanitarianaid for Iraqi children. Over 150 schools replied his request.

“At first toys and school equipment were delivered” – informedMrs. Edyta Gorlicka, coordinator of humanitarian aid from CivilianMilitary Cooperation (CIMIC) group – “Earlier, the samehumanitarian stuff was delivered to camp Delta in Al Kut in Wasitprovince.

Story by Lt.Col. Marek Zielinski (Poland)

Ad Diwaniyah, Camp Echo, Feb. 25, Mrs. Edyta Gorlicka,coordinator of humanitarian assistance from Polish CIMICreceives toys for Iraqi children. Photo by Capt. SzczepanGluszczak (Poland)

The logo of the action “Polish (Wielkopolska province)children for Iraqi children”. Photo by Capt. SzczepanGluszczak (Poland)

12

Brig. Gen. Ahsan Speaks to Military AffairsCouncil On Regional Perspective on War on

TerrorismStory by Lt.Col. Ehtisham Tirmizi (Pakistan)

Brig. Gen. Ahsan, the Pakistani SNRspoke to the Military Affairs Council ofthe Tampa Chamber of Commerce on theregional perspective on war on terrorism.After introducing himself, Ahsan thankedthe community for providing theopportunity for interaction andemphasized the importance of communitysupport to win

Brig.Gen. Ahsan during his briefing. Photos by Capt. Manuel Matos (Dominican Rep.)

this war. He spoke broadly on the coreissues of problems faced by coalition forces.He briefed the audience regarding the roleof Pakistan and its efforts as a Coalitionpartner. Importance and hard realities of theregion were discussed followed by aquestion- answer session. The Military Affairs Council is a teamof more than 50 members of the Greater

Chamber of Commerce who respect thesacrifices of those serving in military. Thisorganization serves as a conduit betweenthe citizens of Tampa and AmericanCoalition military members. It organizes anumber of events like Veterans Day,reception for Senior Non CommissionedOfficers and annual military appreciationdinners.

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea – TheUSS John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Groupentered the U.S. 5th Fleet area ofoperations Feb.19 to conduct MaritimeSecurity Operations in regional waters, aswell as to provide support for groundforces operating in Afghanistan and Iraq. Led by Rear Adm. Kevin Quinn,commander, Carrier Strike Group 3, thestrike group includes the Nimitz-classaircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN74), Carrier Air Wing 9, DestroyerSquadron 21, the guided-missile cruiserUSS Antietam (CG 54), guided-missiledestroyers USS O’Kane (DDG 77) and USS

Preble (DDG 88), and the fast combat-support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10). More than 6,500 Sailors and Marines areassigned to JCSSG. “The USS John C. Stennis Carrier StrikeGroup is here to help foster stability andsecurity in the region,” said Quinn. “We lookforward to working with our coalitionpartners to provide support for groundforces operating in Iraq and Afghanistan,as well as conducting maritime securityoperations that help provide a safeenvironment for shipping within the region.We are ready, we are sustainable, we areflexible and we provide significant

capabilities that contribute to regionalpeace and security.” MSO help set the conditions for securityand stability in the maritime environment,as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regionalnations. These operations denyinternational terrorists use of the maritimeenvironment as a venue for attack or totransport personnel, weapons or othermaterial. U.S. 5th Fleet’s AOO encompasses 2.5million square miles of water and includesthe Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Red Sea,Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts ofthe Indian Ocean.

USS John C. Stennis Carrier StrikeGroup Arrives in 5th Fleet

Story by Lt. Nathan Christensen

ww

w.c

entc

om.m

il/O

pera

tions

/Coa

litio

n/jo

int.h

tm


The Spanish PRT in Qala and Naw(Afghanistan) has made delivery, through thelocal authorities, of a series of scholasticmaterial and text books to the school inChakarán, as well as of a water well justconstructed. In particular, the Spanish military of AirborneLight Brigade gave 1,000 individual text books,as well as 175 slates and diverse lots ofscholastic material (notebooks, cases, pens,fluorescent pencils of colors, pencil sharpeners,calendars and markers). Part of this materialwas donated by the newspaper of Pontevedraand Pontevedra Club of Soccer. Also, taking advantage of the presence of agreat number of children, refreshments, candiesand caramels were given. The symbolic act wasdeveloped by the governor of Badghis, Col.Roel, head of the PRT, the director of the centerand the authorities of the locality. Chakarán is a small locality to the north of Qala and Naw, ofabout 2,000 inhabitants. According to the school’s director, the number of childrenattending the school is 600. However, the number of students hasincreased about 100 from the previous year, due to the improvementin the conditions of security and the greater awareness in thematter of education.

The Spanish PRT Donates ScholasticMaterial in a School of Afghanistan

Until now, there has been no government support as far educationmaterial and text books. Donations from international organizationsfunded the effort.The subjects distributed are Language (Pastún,English, Darí), sciences (physical, chemical, mathematical andbiological), history and geography.

Unlike most of the centers inAfghanistan, this school is mixed, butstill the social conditioners reign andthe girls never agree at the same timewith the boys. Thus, for a classschedule the girls are in the morningand the boys in the evening. Thissimple project has been possiblethanks to the Spanish collaborationwith the Headquarters of Education ofBadghis. The PRT has a special preoccupationto support this conscious sector thatthe education from childhood is thebase for the future of the country andof which is key within the process ofreconstruction and development. This way, the Spanish contingentsupports the formation distributed inthe schools with slight knowledge oncorporal and sanitary hygiene,measures of protection against the

mines, as well as messages that look for the integration and theimprovement of the social conditions of the Afghan woman.

The Spanish Light Airborne Brigade during the act of deliveryof 1,000 text books

The Spanish Light Airborne Brigade during the act of deliveryof 175 individual slates and diverse lots of scholastic material

Story and photos courtesy of Spanish Ministry of Defense

14

KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces work hand-in-hand withthe Afghan National Army to train soldiers at the Kabul MilitaryTraining Center to enter the fight against terrorism and providesecurity for the Afghan people. At any given time, more than 10,000 Afghan trainees go throughcourses ranging from basic training to advanced individual skills.“We are very pleased with our progress,” said Afghan NationalArmy Brig. Gen. Amin Wardak, KMTC commander of training. “Infive years we have re-established our army and begun standingon our own. We are proud to say that we now run most of ourcourses but we still rely on the expertise of Coalition forces, suchas the American [forces].” One of the sections of training is weapons. Soldiers are trainedon mortars and small-arms weapons. Although the main rifle issuedis the AK-47, the preferred weapon is the M-16. The U.S. hasalready transferred more than 1,000 M-16swith the promise of more to come.

Coalition Forces Sharpen ANA Weapon Skills

Story by Senior Airman Stacia Zachary

Recently, the addition of paper targetson the ranges has helped instructors teachthe students about zeroing their weapons,accuracy and breathing techniques. “The ANA is learning how to beproficient with their weapons, but it takesa lot of practice and proper trainingequipment,” said Senior Master Sgt.Robert Spaulding, Training AssistanceGroup, garrison sergeant major. “With thetargets we are able to show them groupingand help them with iron sights. They arededicated to learning and many are goodmarksmen.” Spaulding works in logistics and supplyby trade, he has had to learn differentaspects of the military to better aid thetraining of the ANA.

“Working with the ANA has given me a greaterappreciation for serving in the military,” he said.“There is a greater sense of purpose when you areable to actually work side-by-side with the peoplewho are your ‘customers’. These men are not justserving in the army but putting their lives on the lineevery day for their country. We are giving them theskills they need to be successful.” Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines like Spauldingare helping shape the progress and success of theANA and the security of their nation. “We remain eternally grateful for the help theCoalition forces have given our army,” Wardak said.“Without them, we would not be this far along orstrong.”

Afghan National Army Capt. Abdul Rahman, 1st Military PoliceCompany, commander, reviews his marksmanship with anM-16 and optical scope at a shooting range at the Kabul MilitaryTraining Center. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Senior Airman StaciaZachary)

Senior Master Sgt. Robert Spaulding, sergeant major mentor, Training Assistance GroupGarrison, shows Afghan National Army Capt. Abdul Rahman, commander, 1st MilitaryPolice Company, the mechanics of an M-16 and how to view the target through theoptical scope. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Senior Airman Stacia Zachary)

An Afghan National Army lieutenant prepares to fire on the 150-meter targetwith his AK-47 March 14 at the Kabul National Military Center ranges. (U.S.Air Force Photo by Senior Airman Stacia Zachary)

ww

w.c

entc

om.m

il/O

pera

tions

/Coa

litio

n/jo

int.h

tm


“Operation Achilles” in Southern AfghanistanTaliban Commander Captured by Afghan National

ArmyStory by Army Sgt. Tony J. Spain

KHANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — At the request ofthe Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s government, soldiers fromNATO’s International Security Assistance Force and the AfghanNational Security Force launched a major operation targetingTaliban and drug traffickers in southern Afghanistan March 6. “Operation will focus on improving security in areas where Talibanextremist, foreign terrorists and [narcotics] traffickers are trying todestabilize the government of Afghanistan,” said Dutch Maj. Gen.Ton Van Loon, commander, Regional Command-South. “We also intend to empower village elders to take charge of theircommunities as they have been doing so in other parts of southernAfghanistan, without the influence of Taliban extremists,” he said. Code named “Operation Achilles,” the multi-national forceoperating in the northern region of the Helmand province involves5,500 soldiers including, 1,000 soldiers from the Afghan NationalSecurity Force and up to 1000 Paratroopers from Fort Bragg’s 82nd

Airborne Division. The first elements of the operation reached their positions earlyMarch 6, said Van Loon. Paratroopers from the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute InfantryRegiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, arealso playing a key roll in “Operation Achilles.” “Our Paratroopers coordinated a convoy and night air assault inthe Ghorak Valley of the Helmand Province,” said 1st Lt. MathewCatalono, 1-508th PIR. “The main effort is actually the British; we are a supporting effortto help isolate and prevent Taliban from escaping,” said Capt. TomReinner, 1-508th PIR.

“This is the largest multi-national combined ANSF and ISAFoperation launched to date and it signifies the beginning of aplanned offensive to bring security to northern Helmand and setthe conditions for meaningful development that will fundamentallyimprove the quality of life for Afghans in the area,” Van Loon said. Although “Operation Achilles” focus is on improving securityconditions, its overreaching purpose is to assist the governmentof Afghanistanin improving its ability to begin reconstruction andeconomic development in the area. “Strategically, our goal is to enable the Afghan government tobegin the Kajaki Project,” Van Loon said. Van Loon noted the Kajaki multi-purpose dam and power housewill improve the water supply for local communities, rehabilitateirrigation systems for farmlands, as well as provide sufficientelectrical power for residents, industries and commerce. Soldiers from the ANSF captured a high-ranking Talibancommander and suicide bomb attack facilitator during the secondday of operation. Mullah Mahmood was arrested at an ANSF check point as hetried to escape dressed in a burka, a veil worn by Islamic womanhere. “The capture of this senior Taliban extremist is another indicatorthat a more normal life is returning to the Zahre and Panjwaiidistricts, and is a testament to the great work the ANA is achieving,”Van Loon said. “Yesterday’s security crackdown in Panjwaii is an example of theultimate goals of “Operation Achilles.” With stability provided bythe ANA, much needed reconstruction will commence for thepeople of southern Afghanistan,” he added.

Paratroopers from B Company, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Divisionmoves out on patrol into the Ghorak Valley of the Helmand Province in Southern Afghanistan during “Operation Achilles March 6.(U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Matthew T. Little)

16

Gen. Abizaid’s Farewell PartyGen. Abizaid’s Farewell PartyGen. Abizaid’s Farewell PartyGen. Abizaid’s Farewell PartyGen. Abizaid’s Farewell Party

U.S.Army War College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S.Army War College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S.Army War College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S.Army War College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S.Army War College Students’ Visit To CENTCOM

ww

w.c

entc

om.m

il/O

pera

tions

/Coa

litio

n/jo

int.h

tm


Bulgarian National Day CelebrationBulgarian National Day CelebrationBulgarian National Day CelebrationBulgarian National Day CelebrationBulgarian National Day Celebration

U.S. Navy Command College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S. Navy Command College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S. Navy Command College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S. Navy Command College Students’ Visit To CENTCOMU.S. Navy Command College Students’ Visit To CENTCOM

Qatar Liaison Team Visits Eckerd CollegeQatar Liaison Team Visits Eckerd CollegeQatar Liaison Team Visits Eckerd CollegeQatar Liaison Team Visits Eckerd CollegeQatar Liaison Team Visits Eckerd College

Afg

hani

stan

Nat

iona

l Arm

y so

ldie

rs d

ism

ount

to p

ull s

ecur

ity fo

r U

.S. A

rmy

Sold

iers

at t

he a

band

oned

For

war

dO

pera

ting

Bas

e Ve

ga in

the

Kho

wst

Pro

vinc

e of

Afg

hani

stan

(U

.S. A

rmy

phot

o by

Sta

ff Sg

t. Is

aac

A. G

raha

m)

change of command at u.s.centcomchange of command at u.s.centcom change of command at u.s.centcom....

Documents